Young Starlet Pens Deal

Young striker Angelo Balanta has signed a contract extension with Queens Park Rangers.

The young Colombian-born striker has made a significant impact on the first-team set-up in recent seasons, culminating in a positive pre-season.

Hailed by owner Flavio Briatore as 'the new Schumacher' upon his emergence through the youth set-up, he has impressed both in a strikers role and out wide.

This latest extension takes the forward until the summer of 2012, and he will be hoping to forge more first team appearances in the months to come.

He has made 27 appearances for Rangers since making a fantastic impact under Luigi De Canio. A succession of injuries have curtailed his start to the season, but he is now looking forward to regaining his first team spot.

Speaking to QPR.co.uk he said: 'It's been a frustrating season, but I'm back fit now and really looking forward to playing my part.

'I feel really sharp and hopefully I can make an impact during the second half of the season.'

The 19-year-old forward has only mustered two appearances this season - starting against Blackpool on the opening day, before coming from the bench against Ipswich prior to the New Year.